aahhhhh...

it is one of those most perfect of mornings here in my queendom, on this first day of autumn.  the only sound is the chattering of the birds, the sun is shining, the twiglets on the fir tree outside my window are just barely moving in the soft breeze.  and this must be a sure sign of fall.... a very fluffy-tailed squirrel just scooted down that fir tree and seems to be searching in the brush for something to eat... or store away for later.

and now back to the regularly scheduled sorting, packing, tossing, and cleaning to get the house ready to list with the realtor.  there is an end in sight!!  in 8 days we leave for Denmark and then on to Crete for almost 2 months!  and before that, i'm having outpatient surgery on friday to remove a polyp from my vocal cords (general anesthetic, which causes me a bit of anxiety),  after which i'm supposed to not talk for at least 3 days... eeeek.  and after the surgery we'll go up to a park in the Columbia Gorge where Rachael and Matt will be married on Sat.  Jim and I will stay at the Carson Mineral Hot Springs Hotel, a funky very old hotel which features soaking tubs, followed by a wrap in warm sheets and quiet time in a darkened room.  there are also massages available by appointment... and we hope to have a hot soak and the massage!!  Rachael and Matt were here on Saturday to talk with Jim about the wedding, since he will officiate the ceremony.  it really sounds like it will be a fine celebration.  if i see you at the wedding, i won't be talking... but you talk and i'll listen and nod!!